Functional Literacy Skills of Grade 4 Learners: Basis for Developing a Literacy Enhancement Program

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the functional literacy skills of Grade 4 learners in selected public elementary schools in Cabiao, Nueva Ecija, as the basis for developing a Literacy Enhancement Program. Specifically, the study determined the learners’ level of functional literacy in terms of reading comprehension, writing for practical purposes, and applied numeracy skills, as well as the extent of home-related and learning environment factors affecting literacy development. The study utilized a quantitative descriptive research design. The respondents consisted of 175 Grade 4 learners from Cabiao Central School, Bagong Silang Elementary School, and Palasinan Elementary School. A researcher-made Functional Literacy Assessment Questionnaire based on the Functional Literacy, Education, and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) framework was used as the primary instrument. Frequency, percentage, and weighted mean were employed to analyze the gathered data. Findings revealed that the overall level of functional literacy skills of the learners was Very Satisfactory, with reading comprehension obtaining the highest mean, followed by writing for practical purposes. Applied numeracy skills received the lowest mean and were interpreted as Satisfactory, indicating the need for improvement in applying mathematical concepts in real-life situations. The study also found that most learners had access to smartphones and internet connection, a dedicated study area, and parental support in learning. However, many learners spent limited time reading and did not practice reading regularly despite having a positive attitude toward reading. Based on the findings, the study concluded that although Grade 4 learners generally demonstrated a Very Satisfactory level of functional literacy, intervention remains necessary, particularly in applied numeracy skills. Therefore, the MATH-IN-ACTION Program (Mathematics in Daily Life and Practical Application) was proposed to strengthen learners' ability to apply mathematical concepts in everyday situations.